At some point during your stay a problem may occur. Problems create opportunities for learning experiences. Be prepared to be challenged and mentally “stretched” during your stay in the United States. One of the most challenging issues you will face is defining just what the real problem is, not the symptom of the problem. If you are having an assignment-related problem as part of your work, you may find that your camp/host site has already established a procedure for dealing with the problem. Ask your supervisor for help. If your problem is with your super-visor, ask your supervisor for some uninterrupted time to discuss your concerns. Again, make sure you have clearly identified the problem before you begin the discussion. Stick to facts and specific behavior. Do not let your judgment be clouded by personalities and emotional reactions.

Once you have identified the problem, seek as much information as you can about why the problem exists and what options might be available to address its resolution. Frequently, under-standing why a problem exists helps clarify what is really happening. If it is an assignment-related problem, discuss the options with your supervisor to determine which is the most promising solution. You will want to seek the option which has the most benefits and the least detriments.

Does all this sound overly easy? Remember that you will be experiencing life in a different culture where the assumptions about what is common or normal could be very different from those you grew up with.  

If possible, solve your problems with the help of your supervisor or your peers. If you need International YMCA staff assistance, WRITE TO US! TELEPHONE ONLY FOR EMERGENCIES! Ask for the International YMCA staff person designated to your  site (see “Contacts”). Do not leave your host institution before your supervisor and the International YMCA have been consulted. The International YMCA telephone numbers are: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — (212) 727-8800; or if outside New York State — 1-888-477-9622. Evenings and weekends: Leave a message on the emergency voice mailbox at the same number and the International YMCA will return your call.

Here are some important guidelines to follow:
 

Be open to your new surroundings. Adjustment usually occurs gradually. Ask questions if you don’t understand. Make friends with your supervisor. If you feel overwhelmed by your surroundings and/or are unhappy, talk to co-workers at your placement site.

Sometimes participants encounter serious problems. We request that you give your placement a chance and not give up. Try to talk over and work through any problems for at least two weeks (the first two weeks are the most difficult) because most problems are identified and settlements made during that period.

Most participants have a very successful program. Very few, in fact, have the kind of problems described above. However, we don’t want you to become one of the few who does have to leave before planned, so spend a few moments thinking about what it will mean to be a work/travel participant in the United States.